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Verbascum thapsus - Family:  Scrophulariaceae Common names: Great Mullein, Common Mullein / NL: Koningskaars / F: Molène Mullein is probably one of the most ideal herbs to treat a wide range of conditions of the respiratory tract. The reason for this is that it contains equally balanced medicinal properties that are required to treat the most common respiratory ailments: antiseptic, astringent, demulcent, emollient, expectorant, pectoral, vulnerary and mild sedative. In short, Mullein tones the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, stimulates expectoration and reduces inflammation. Its entire aerial parts can be used in infusions or tinctures to help relieving coughs, bronchitis, asthma and and other respiratory conditions. Native Americans smoked this herb, as part of the treatment in spasmodic coughs or asthma. Some claim that smoking Mullein has helped them quitting tobacco smoking - especially if combined with Lobelia.  When preparing the herb in infusion or tinctur...

Primula veris (or P. officinalis) NL: Echte sleutelbloem / F: Primevère officinale This precious herb was once an abundant perennial, widely harvested at springtime for food and for its highly praised medicinal properties. This was before current farming practices took over most lands.  Young leaves and flowers are nutritious additions to salads and smoothies. The leaves can also be added to enrich soups and stews.  Its leaves, before flower Flowers, leaves and root have been used since ancient time as sedative, nervine, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antispasmodic. That means that it may help to treat spasms, cramps, asthma and other respiratory conditions, insomnia, fever, bruises and to ease painful conditions. Simply another amazing plant!!   Here is a nice super short video to help you to recognize Cowslip: Cowslip / Primula veris More on Cowslip: Primula veris - Cowslip - PFAF

Tussilago farfara NL: Klein hoefblad / F: Tussilage Coltsfoot has been known as a powerful expectorant, demulcent, diaphoretic and antitussive in traditional herbalism, being prescribed for a wide range of respiratory ailments, from common colds and coughs, sore throats to bronchial asthma and chronic emphysema. It is also known for its skin healing properties, being used externally to treat eczema, inflammations, burns, skin ulcers, wounds and bites. There are suggestions of coltsfoot extracts being used to increase immunity.   Leaves are found separately from the flowers The entire plant is known by foragers as a wild edible. I personally would only eat it unless in a situation of serious need, as the plant contains liver-harzardous pyrrolizidine alkaloids and is potentially toxic in large doses - especially the flowering stems. Such alkaloids are mostly destroyed by decoction. The leaves contain less of these alkaloids and are the safest part of the plant to be used.  Here ...